Issuu

& UPCOMING EVENTS

The Evansville Thunderbolts Raise the Cup Again

The Thunderbolts cemented their place in franchise history with another championship season.

and Event Guide

Check out the events coming to Evansville in June.

Established in Nov.

Publisher

brian@news4uevv.com

Managing Editor & Writer Amy Bradford amy@news4uevv.com

Account Representative and Graphic Designer Amy Bradford amy@news4uevv.com

Production Manager, Designer & Layout Artist Olyvia Symon olyvia@news4uevv.com

Contributors

Amelia Adkins, Amy Bradford, Paul Bragin, Jason Brown, Danny Browning, Brian Buxton, Magen Coates, Paul Hollyfeld, Jim Johnson, Tom Leggett, Jabez Martinez, Landon Miller, Brittany Nelson, Marisa Patwa, Lindsay Scott, Lane Siesky, Zach Vaughn, Lindsey Williams

A QUICK NOTE FROM THE EDITOR

Being healthy is expensive.

I noticed it standing in the checkout line buying groceries last week, watching the total climb higher than I expected. Again. The cart wasn’t extravagant. Just better choices. Whole foods. The kind of groceries you buy when you decide you’re going to take care of yourself for real this time…and fingers crossed they aren’t left to rot in the back of the fridge.

Then there’s the gym membership dues quietly inching up. The time it takes to go, to plan, to show up. Even when I map it out between school drop-offs and everything else the day holds, it always asks for more than I thought I had to give.

There are easier ways to live. Faster, cheaper, more convenient ways. And if I’m being honest, I’ve chosen those before. A lot. I’m guilty of coasting with my genetically fast metabolism. That doesn’t mean I’m healthy, though.

But lately, something has shifted. I turn 40 next month, and maybe that has something to do with it. It’s a birthday that makes you look at your habits a little closer and reminds you this is the life you’re building, whether you mean to or not. It’s hurrying by without my noticing. It’s not just about food or workouts. The “good for you” choices show up everywhere.

They show up when you choose to spend a Saturday morning walking along the Evansville Riverfront instead of rushing through another to-do list. When you decide to linger a little longer downtown, maybe grab a table at a

downtown cafe or try somewhere new instead of defaulting to what’s easy.

They show up when you support the local places that are building something here. The ones that give Evansville its texture. Its personality. Its sense of place. Just like taking care of yourself, investing in your community asks a little more of you. It might take a little more time. It might not always be the most convenient option, but it gives something back. It gives you a reason to feel proud of where you live and a reminder that there’s more here than what we pass by on autopilot.

And maybe that’s the thread through all of it. The things that are good for us, truly good for us, rarely come easy. They ask for effort and we have to choose them, over and over again. But they’re also the things that make us feel better. More connected and present in our own lives.

I’m learning that in real time.

Amy Bradford

BACK TO BACK

A RELENTLESS PLAYOFF PUSH ENDED WITH ANOTHER PRESIDENTS CUP CELEBRATION FOR EVANSVILLE HOCKEY FANS

What the Evansville Thunderbolts accomplished this season officially removed any remaining doubt: this is no longer an underdog story. This is a franchise building a legacy.

After capturing the first President’s Cup in team history last season, the Thunderbolts returned in 2026 with something far more difficult ahead of them: proving it was not a fluke. Under the leadership of Head Coach Jeff Bes, Evansville did exactly that, battling back from a 2-0 series deficit against top-seeded Peoria to secure a second straight SPHL championship in a dramatic five-game series.

Only three other franchises in league history have managed back-to-back championships.

“Let’s get real,” Bes said following the championship run. “It’s so hard to do.”

That difficulty was something Bes understood long before the playoffs began. Last year, as the Thunderbolts entered the season as defending champions for the first time, he spoke openly about the mental shift that comes with success.

“You are now the hunted and you’re not the hunter,” Bes explained before the season began.

The target on Evansville’s back was real from opening night forward. Expectations were higher. The schedule was unforgiving. Every opponent wanted to measure themselves against the defending champs. Yet throughout the season, the Thunderbolts

leaned into the same identity that carried them to their first title: trust, resilience, and complete buy-in from top to bottom.

“Everybody bought into what we wanted to be successful,” Bes said. “Having that belief is what shows if you can compete and you can win.”

That belief became the defining theme of the Thunderbolts’ postseason run.

After a franchise-best regular season that saw Evansville finish with 69 points and a fourth-place SPHL finish, the road to another championship was anything but easy. The Thunderbolts survived a lategame comeback against Pensacola in the opening round, eliminated Roanoke in the semifinals, and then faced their toughest

challenge yet against the rival Peoria Rivermen in the Finals.

When Evansville dropped the first two games of the series on the road, outside doubt began creeping back into the conversation.

Captain Matthew Hobbs heard all of it.

“Everyone said last year was a fluke,” Hobbs said. “There was a lot on the line for us. To prove to everybody that we earned it last year and earned it again this year.”

The Thunderbolts responded by defending home ice inside Ford Center, winning Games 3 and 4 to force a deciding Game 5 back in Peoria. There, with the season hanging in the balance, Evansville once again embraced the role that has oddly come to define this era of Thunderbolts hockey.

“We kind of felt like we’re that team that you can’t kill,” said Aaron Huffnagle.

That mentality showed in the final game of the season. Tied midway through Game 5, the Thunderbolts rattled off three straight goals to seize control before ultimately sealing a 6-4 championship victory on enemy ice.

The playoff run featured standout performances across the roster. Hobbs earned Playoff MVP honors with 10 points and a plus-10 rating. Huffnagle matched him with 10 points of his own, while Kristian

Stead anchored the team in net with a .933 save percentage throughout the postseason. Still, Bes remains adamant, just as he did last season, that the championship was not about one player.

“Every single player impacted the championship,” he said. “Every night somebody stepped up. That’s how you win.” Proving what Coach preached all along, that the success is a result of total buy-in.

That philosophy has become the foundation of the culture now taking shape in Evansville. Just two seasons ago, the franchise had never won a playoff series.

Now the Thunderbolts have gone backto-back and entered conversations about something no SPHL team has ever done: winning three straight championships.

“We’re building a good culture here,” Hobbs said. “I think we’re the hardestworking team in the league, and that’s the reason why we’ve got two wins. My mindset is getting a third.”

For Evansville hockey fans, what once felt impossible is starting to feel like the standard.

Photos courtesy of the Thunderbolts Facebook page

TRI-STATE

LIVE MUSIC SCHEDULE

Check out News 4U’s Live Music Schedule for the latest performances happening in the Evansville area! Whether you're planning a night out with friends or just want to catch some live entertainment, we've got you covered. Stay updated and never miss a great show! Follow these venues on social media for updated event times, changes, or more information.

EVANSVILLE:

10-8 Café Bar & Grill at Lawman Tactical

4209 US 41 North, Evansville, IN (812) 413-0129

facebook.com/TenEightCafe

Karaoke every Thursday evening, 5:00pm –8:00pm

Live music on the patio (weather permitting), Fri. & Sat., 6:30pm – 9:30pm

June 5th - Brandon McCarty, 6:00pm - 9:00pm

June 6th - Tony Henning, 6:00pm - 9:00pm

June 12th - Nick Hamilton, 6:30pm - 9:30pm

June 13th - Nick Gregory, 6:30pm - 9:30pm

June 19th - Nick Smith, 6:30pm - 9:30pm

June 20th - Ben Dahlquist, 6:30pm - 9:30pm

June 26th - Lindsey Williams, 6:30pm - 9:30pm

June 27th - Brad Lemmons, 6:30pm - 9:30pm

Watch their Facebook page for updates! Watch their Facebook page for updates!

Bally’s Evansville – 421 Lounge

421 NW Riverside Dr., Evansville, IN (812) 433-4000

facebook.com/ballysevansville

Live music & bands on weekends from 8:00pm – 12 midnight

June 5th – Kolten Taylor & The Truck Toppers

June 6th – Kolten Taylor & The Truck Toppers

June 12th – Ten Year Town

June 13th – Ten Year Town

June 19th – Pink Cadillac

June 20th – Pink Cadillac

June 26th – Kelly & Sarah

Watch their Facebook page & website for updates!

Bally’s Evansville – Piano Bar at Cavanaughs

421 NW Riverside Dr., Evansville, IN (812) 433-4000

facebook.com/ballysevansville casinos.ballys.com/evansville/cavanaughson-the-river.htm

Live music at the piano bar: Wed & Thurs 6:00pm – 9:00pm & Fri & Sat 6 –10:00pm Bob Green & EJ Simmons

Watch their Facebook page and website for updates!

Bokeh Lounge

1007 Parrett St., Evansville, IN (812) 909-0388 facebook.com/BokehLounge

Karaoke with DJ Nathan on Sunday and Monday Nights @ 6:00pm

The Oxford Comma Trivia every Tuesday @ 7:00pm

June 3rd - Nick Hamilton, 6:00pm

June 4th - Open Mic with Mike Dee, 6:00pm

June 5th - First Friday with Lindsey Williams, 5:30pm & DJ AP, 8:00pm

June 6th - Re-Arranged Limp Bizket Tribute, 5:30pm & DJ AP, 8:00pm

June 7th - Sunday Jazz with Jon Lutz and the Sleepwalkers, 2:30pm

June 10th - Nick Hamilton, 6:00pm

June 12th - Dj Dan Gunn, 8:00pm

June 13th - Margo Macero, 8:00pm

June 14th - Sunday Jazz with The Sidemen, 2:30pm

June 16th - Bokeh Poetry Night, 7:00pm

June 17th - Nick Hamilton, 6:00pm

June 18th - Blues and Jazz open Mic, 6:00pm

June 19th - Lane Rose, 8:00pm

June 20th - DJ Chidi, 8:00pm

June 21st - Sunday Jazz with Tom Drury Jazz Quartet, 2:30pm

June 24th - Nick Hamilton, 6:00pm

June 26th - Josh Merritt Band, 8:00pm

June 27th - DJ Rob, 8:00pm

June 28th - Sunday Jazz with The Bokeh Big Band, 2:30pm Watch their Facebook page for updates!

Buds Rockin’ Country Bar & Grill 2124 W Franklin St., Evansville, IN (812) 401-1730 facebook.com/BudsOnFranklin

Tuesdays – Boscoe France Blues, 7:00 to 9:00pm Fridays – college night with DJ’s Weekends – live music / bands, DJ’s Watch their Facebook page for updates!

Evansville Eagles Aerie 427 social club 6000 Old Boonville Hwy., Evansville, IN. (812) 477-9208

facebook.com/foe427

Live music, Bands, DJ’s & Dancing

Mondays: Ballroom dancing, $15 / couple –6:15pm to 9:00pm

Tuesdays: Judy’s Line dancing, $6 at the door - 4:15pm to 9:00pm

Wednesdays: River City Bop Club dancing7:00pm to 9:30pm

Fridays: Trivia Night with Paul – 7:00pm to 8:30pm

Saturdays: All Saturday dances are $4 for members and $7 for non-members. Watch their Facebook page for updates!

Farm 57

3443 Kansas Rd., Evansville, IN. (812) 677-5757

facebook.com/farm57

Live Music every Wed. at their food truck event, from May 13th through Oct 28th, 4:30pm to 8:00pm (weather permitting) Watch their Facebook page for updates!

Lyle's

1404 E. Morgan Ave., Evansville, IN (812) 425-7729

There’s never a cover charge!

Every Tuesday - Michelle Shelton, 7:00pm9:00pm

Every Friday - Karaoke with Mark Simpson, 7:00pm - 11:00pm

Every Saturday - varying live bands, 8:00pm – 11:00pm

Every Sunday – open Mic night, 7:00pm

June 2nd - Michelle Shelton, 7:00pm - 9:00pm

June 6th - The Chugs, 6:00pm - 9:00pm

June 9th - Michelle Shelton, 7:00pm - 9:00pm

June 13th - Bobby Clark Band, 8:00pm - 10:00pm

June 16th - Michelle Shelton, 8:00pm - 10:00pm

June 20th - Smoke Rings, 7:00pm - 9:00pm

June 23rd - Michelle Shelton, 7:00pm - 9:00pm

June 30th - Michelle Shelton, 7:00pm - 9:00pm

Watch their Facebook page for updates!

Mojos Boneyard

4920 Bellemeade Ave, Evansville, IN (812) 475-8593

facebook.com/mojosboneyard

Every Thursday is Blues Night - Check Evenbrite for music.

Every Thurs Blues @ 6:00pm Danny & the Jons (all shows start at 7:00pm)

June 4th - The BoneYard Trio

June 10th - Chris Cain Band

June 11th - Danny & The Jons

June 12th - Mathias Lattin & Dylan Triplett

June 18th - Danny & The Jons

June 20th - Madam Radar

June 25th - Danny & The Jons

Watch their Facebook page for updates!

Mo’s House

1114 Parrett St., Evansville, IN. (812) 401-3800 facebook.com/moshouse812

First Sunday of the Month: Open Mic Night, 6:00pm – 9:00pm

Second Saturday of the Month: Loops and Rhythm, 6:00pm – 9:00pm

Third Sunday of the Month: Spotlight Night, featuring different traveling artists, 6pm – 9pm

Watch their Facebook page for updates!

Primetime North

12301 Hwy 41 North, Evansville, IN (812) 202-7920

facebook.com/ptnorth41

Live Music in the Bar 7:00 - 10:00pm, Karaoke, 8:00pm – 11:00-pm

Singo every Wednesday, 6:00pm

June 5th - Karaoke, 8:00pm – 11:00pm

June 6th – Just Us 4, 7:00pm – 10:00pm

June 12th – Jimmy DeTalente, 7:00pm – 10:00pm

June 13th – Nick Smith, 7:00pm – 10:00pm

June 19th – Lindsey Williams, 7:00pm – 10:00pm

June 20th – Podunk Willies, 7:00pm – 10:00pm

June 26th – Rodney Watts, 7:00pm – 10:00pm

June 27th – Bubba Wiggles, 7:00pm – 10:00pm

Watch their Facebook page for updates!

Ray Leo’s at Lamasco

1331 W. Franklin St., Evansville, IN (812) 437-0171

facebook.com/rayleosatlamasco

Live music, DJ’s, karaoke etc. all week long June 5th – The Free Fall Tour, 8:00pm

June 6th – See This Through, 7:00pm

June 11th – The Devils Cut, 5:30pm

June 13th - Pro Wrestling Superstar Jeff Hardy’s PEROXWHY?GEN

with special guests SHE & Joe Hermes, doors open at 7:00pm (must purchase tickets online) June 15th – Guitarmageddon3, 5:00pm Watch their Facebook page for updates!

Reitz Home Museum

112 Chestnut St, Evansville, IN. (812) 426-1871

facebook.com/profile. php?id=100056607917529

Live Music at wine down to the weekend during the Summer (May 20th to Sept). Watch their Facebook page for updates!

Six Strings on Franklin

2131 West Franklin St., Evansville, IN. • (812) 401-1699

facebook.com/sixstringsonfranklin

Live music every Thursday, Friday, and Saturday with special national and regional touring acts. See BandIsInTown.com for tickets to most all the live music events. Performers usually starting at 5:30pm and/ or 8:30pm

Watch their Facebook page for updates!

The Foundry Room

601 Walnut St., Evansville, IN. (930) 212-1101

facebook.com/thefoundryroomevansville

Live Music most weekend nights, starting at 6pm

June 26th – Monty Skelton, 6:00pm to 8:00pm

Watch their Facebook page for updates!

Warehouse 410

410 Carpenter St., Evansville, IN. (812) 568-1467

facebook.com/warehouse410evv

Live music throughout the month. Select events require ticket purchased in advance*denotes ticketed event June 14th - Sing Along Brunch * Watch their Facebook page for updates!

MORE LIVE MUSIC SPOTS

WATCH THEIR FACEBOOK FOR SCHEDULES OF EVENTS!

AArcademie

Damsel Brew Pub

Dontae’s Highland Pizza Parlor

Entwined Wine & Cocktail Bar

EVPL / Arts Council events

Frankie’s Restaurant & Bar

Gerst Haus (late night weekends)

Hilltop Inn

Hornet’s Nest

Industry Bar

Jacobs Pub

KC’s Time Out Lounge

Main Street Food & Beverage Hall

Marina Pointe (seasonal)

O’Brian’s Evansville

Patsy Hartigan’s Irish Pub

Playa Azul

Smitty’s Italian Steakhouse

Spankey’s Una Café

Stockwell Inn (after reopening)

The Dive Barge (seasonal)

The Frontier Restaurant & Bar

The Main Event

The Phoenix Room at Madeleine’s The Rooftop

Tiki on Main

Your Brother’s Bookstore

Marida

Newburgh

RJ’s

EVANSVILLE

American Legion Aux., Kapperman Unit #44

Bastoni Italian Restaurant

Café Arazu (seasonal patio) Crickets

Havens Bar

Kurdish & Turkish Cuisine

Tavern

Restaurant & Bar (Boonville) NEWBURGH

Cap & Cork (Henderson, KY)

HENDERSON

FLATLAND CAVALRY: WORK OF THE HEART TOUR

OLD NATIONAL EVENTS PLAZA/ JUNE 12

Texas country favorites Flatland Cavalry bring their Work of the Heart Tour to the Old National Events Plaza on June 12, delivering a night rooted in storytelling, grit, and wide-open sound. Known for blending Red Dirt country with folk and Americana influences, the band has built a loyal following with songs that feel both personal and expansive. Expect a setlist filled with fan favorites and newer tracks that showcase their signature mix of heartfelt lyrics and driving rhythms—perfect for a laid-back summer night with a little edge.

“WEIRD AL” YANKOVIC: BIGGER AND WEIRDER 2026 TOUR

FORD CENTER/ JUNE 16

Comedy and music collide as Weird Al Yankovic brings the Bigger & Weirder 2026 Tour to the Ford Center on June 16. Known as the best-selling comedy recording artist of all time, the five-time Grammy winner returns with a full-production, multimedia show featuring his iconic parodies alongside fan favorites never before performed live. Backed by his longtime band and an expanded lineup of additional musicians, Yankovic delivers a larger-than-life concert experience packed with hits like “Amish Paradise,” “Eat It,” “Like a Surgeon,” and “White & Nerdy.” With decades of global touring and a reputation for wildly entertaining performances, this is a night of music and comedy that doesn’t take itself too seriously—in the best way possible.

JOURNEY- FINAL FRONTIER TOUR 2026

FORD CENTER/ JUNE 17

Rock history takes its final bow as Journey brings the Final Frontier Tour 2026 to the Ford Center on June 17. Doors open at 6:30 pm with the show beginning at 7:30 pm for what promises to be a powerful, full-scale farewell from the Rock & Roll Hall of Fame legends. Featuring a brand-new stage production, the band delivers a career-spanning setlist packed with iconic hits like “Don’t Stop Believin’,” “Faithfully,” and “Any Way You Want It,” alongside deeper cuts in a celebration of the music and fans that defined their fivedecade run. Led by founding guitarist Neal Schon and longtime members including Jonathan Cain and Arnel Pineda, this special evening marks a true final chapter—one that fans won’t want to miss. Limited VIP packages offering premium seating and exclusive merchandise are also available for those looking to make the night even more memorable.

BLUEY’S BIG PLAY

OLD NATIONAL EVENTS PLAZA / AUGUST 4

Bluey leaps from screen to stage in Bluey’s Big Play, a live theatrical adventure featuring Bluey, Bingo, Mum, and Dad in an original story by creator Joe Brumm. Packed with clever games, new music from composer Joff Bush, and impressive larger-than-life puppets, the Emmy Award-winning series comes to life in a fun-filled family show made for fans of all ages. Bluey’s Big Play takes place Aug. 4, 2026, at 6 p.m. Tickets start at $41.95.

KOE WETZEL: THE NIGHT CHAMPIONS TOUR

FORD CENTER / AUGUST 7

Koe Wetzel brings his genre-bending blend of country, rock, grunge, and hip-hop to the Ford Center on Aug. 7, 2026. Known for rowdy live shows and rebellious anthems like “High Road,” “Drunk Driving,” and “February 28, 2016,” Wetzel has built a loyal fanbase through his unapologetic lyrics and high-energy performances. Fresh off massive tours with HARDY and Morgan Wallen, Wetzel returns to the road with The Night Champion Tour for what promises to be another night of “total chaos.”

KILLERS OF KILL TONY

VICTORY THEATRE / AUGUST 13

Killers of Kill Tony brings the chaos and comedy of the wildly popular Kill Tony podcast to the stage on Aug. 13, 2026, at 7 p.m. Featuring fan-favorite comedians and standout regulars from the hit live podcast, the touring showcase gives audiences a chance to see extended standup sets packed with sharp humor, unpredictable energy, and the offbeat personalities that made Kill Tony a comedy phenomenon.

THREE DOG NIGHT

OLD NATIONAL EVENTS PLAZA / AUGUST 15

Three Dog Night brings its catalog of classic rock staples to the Old National Events Plaza on Aug. 15, 2026, at 7:30 p.m. Known for decades of chart-topping hits, powerhouse vocals, and enduring stage presence, the legendary band promises an evening packed with nostalgia and timeless rock energy. Tickets start at $72.55.

THOMAS RHETT: THE SOUNDTRACK TO LIFE TOUR

FORD CENTER / AUGUST 20

Thomas Rhett brings The Soundtrack to Life Tour to the Ford Center on Aug. 20, 2026, at 7:30 p.m. Known for his high-energy performances and hit-packed catalog, the Diamond-certified country superstar promises a night full of nostalgic singalongs and feel-good anthems. The stop will also feature special guests Conner Smith and Emily Ann Roberts, along with VIP experiences that include premium seating, backstage access, exclusive merch, and more.

15TH ST. MEINRAD ROCKS FEST

ST. MEINRAD, IN / SEPTEMBER 25-26

St. Meinrad ROCKS Fest returns Sept. 25–26 to St. Meinrad Park with two days of free, family-friendly entertainment featuring live music, food vendors, a beer garden, children’s activities, and a community vendor fair. This year’s lineup includes performances from acts like Sassy Country, Trippin’ Grace, Black Moon Mourning, Hometown Gold, and more, along with a live animal show from Silly Safari. Hosted by Inkspot Productions and Automated Routing, the annual event also raises funds to support preservation efforts for the town museum and the history of St. Meinrad.

STOMP AND HOLLER

UNVEILS

STAR-STUDED INAUGURAL LINEUP FOR OCTOBER 2–3 AT THE DAM

A brand-new Kentucky music tradition is officially roaring to life.

Organizers have unveiled the inaugural lineup for STOMP AND HOLLER, the new roots music, bourbon, food, and camping festival coming to Beaver Dam Amphitheater on October 2 and 3, 2026. With a carefully curated blend of Americana, roots rock, country soul, and emerging artists from across the country, the festival is already positioning itself as one of the Midwest’s most exciting boutique music events.

Leading the inaugural lineup are Southern rock powerhouse BLACKBERRY SMOKE, rising country sensation IAN MUNSICK, genre-defying duo THE WAR AND TREATY, and country hitmaker PRISCILLA BLOCK.

Known for their gritty Southern sound and loyal grassroots following, Blackberry Smoke has become one of the most respected live bands in modern rock and Americana, with fan-favorite songs like One Horse Town and Waiting for the Thunder. Ian Munsick has emerged as one of country music’s most exciting young stars, blending modern country with authentic western influences on songs like Long Live Cowgirls. The War and Treaty bring soaring harmonies and emotional performances that have captivated audiences worldwide, while Priscilla Block has become one of country music’s breakout personalities with empowering anthems and high-energy live shows.

Festival organizers say the lineup was intentionally crafted to create a boutique festival experience centered around discovery, authenticity, and unforgettable live performances.

“We wanted to build something different,” said Heath Eric, CEO of The Eric Group. “This is not a giant corporate festival with endless stages and overwhelming crowds. STOMP AND HOLLER is a carefully curated experience built around incredible artists,

great people, Kentucky culture, and creating moments fans will remember for years. The quality of this lineup speaks for itself, and this is only the beginning.”

The festival will feature two stages and a supporting lineup spanning Americana, roots, folk, country rock, and emerging independent artists:

• Abbie Callahan

• Boot Juice

• CeCe

• Dalton Davis

• Hunter Flynn

• Kat Luna

• Late Night Thoughts

• Magnolia Boulevard

• Madison Hughes

• Mary Kutter

• Nicholas Jamerson

• Rob Langdon

• Red Voodoo

• Them Dirty Roses

• The Band Feel

• The Wilder Blue

• Tyler Booth

• Zoe Speaks AND MORE TO BE ANNOUNCED.

Beyond the music, STOMP AND HOLLER promises a fully immersive weekend experience featuring camping, bourbon tastings, beer, curated food vendors, campfire sessions, late-night jams, vendors, activities, and DAM GOOD TIMES.

The event is designed to embrace the spirit of Kentucky while offering fans an affordable alternative to large-scale destination festivals.

“People are craving experiences that feel authentic and personal again,” Eric said. “We believe STOMP AND HOLLER fills a unique space in the market. Fans are going to experience world-class artists in a beautiful setting, incredible production, amazing food and drinks, camping under the stars, and a true sense of community. And they can do it at a fraction of the cost of

many major festivals across the country.” Beaver Dam Mayor Paul Sandefur says the festival represents another major step forward for the city and the amphitheater.

“Beaver Dam Amphitheater has become one of the crown jewels of entertainment in our region,” Sandefur said. “STOMP AND HOLLER elevates that even further by creating a destination weekend that will bring visitors from all over the country to experience our community, our hospitality, and everything that makes Beaver Dam special.”

In addition to entertainment and tourism impact, the festival carries a strong charitable mission. Proceeds from STOMP AND HOLLER will benefit both the Beaver Dam Foundation and the Cliff Hagan Boys & Girls Clubs of America, directly supporting children, families, community projects, and youth development initiatives across Western Kentucky.

“This festival is about creating real impact,” said Ryan Bibb of the Cliff Hagan Boys and Girls Club. “The support generated through STOMP AND HOLLER will help provide safe spaces, mentorship, and opportunities for children who need it most. It’s incredible to see music and community come together in such a meaningful way.”

Organizers say the inaugural year is only the beginning of a long-term vision to establish STOMP AND HOLLER as one of the premier boutique roots music festivals in the country.

Tickets, camping packages, and full festival information are now available at STOMPandHOLLER.org.

With a powerhouse lineup, immersive festival atmosphere, and a mission rooted in community impact, STOMP AND HOLLER is poised to become Western Kentucky’s newest fall tradition.

Kick up dust. Raise your voice. Feel the music. Let’s STOMP AND HOLLER!

HOW ABOUT A GAME OF “I SPY”?

Which of you have the sharpest eyes!? The staff at News4U has partnered with 3 great local businesses to give away 3 great prizes to 3 of you!! And how might you win, you may ask? Just find the emojis that are hidden somewhere in the magazine to be entered into a drawing for each prize! Once you find the emoji, email us a pic of that emoji to prize@news4uevv.com, and your name will be put into a drawing for the corresponding prize. You can only enter one time per emoji, but you can win more than one prize if your name is drawn. Winners will pick up their prizes at the businesses listed!

1. Kipplee's: find their stromboli emoji and enter to win a $25 gift card to the restaurant!

2. Deerhead Tavern: find their pizza emoji and enter to win a $25 gift card to the restaurant!

3. Lily's Mediterranean Express: find their gyro emoji and enter to win a $10 gift card to the restaurant!

Start searching and good luck!

Step inside The Back Nine and the first thing you notice is what’s missing. No wind. No humidity. No waiting on the group ahead of you or anyone pushing you from behind. Just a quiet, focused space and a screen lit up with one of the most iconic golf courses in the world.

In a city that knows summer heat all too well, The Back Nine is quickly becoming one of Evansville’s coolest new places to spend an hour or two. Not just because it is indoors, but because it offers something different. Intentional, no distractions, and built for people who actually want to play.

For owner Matt Waller, that difference is exactly the point. “This isn’t a sports bar with golf,” Waller says. “It’s not a family

entertainment center either. It’s just golf, no distractions.” Or, as he calls it, “a golf spa”.

A New Way to Play

The Back Nine is Evansville’s first location of a fast-growing national franchise, but it does not feel like a chain. The space is designed to be private and personal, with three simulator studios that allow small groups to play, practice, or compete without interruption.

Each studio is powered by Full Swing technology, the same state of the art system trusted by tour professionals worldwide, including Tiger Woods. High-speed cameras and infrared sensors capture every detail of your swing, measuring distance, spin, ball speed, and accuracy in real time.

For serious golfers, it is a powerful training tool. For casual players, it is simply fun to watch your shot take shape on a virtual version of Pebble Beach or the Old Course at St. Andrews.

More than 60 golf courses are available, including Victoria National in nearby Newburgh. It

is a chance to experience world-class golf without ever leaving Evansville. And maybe more importantly in the middle of the Summer, without stepping into the heat.

NO MEMBERSHIP REQUIRED

One of the biggest misconceptions about The Back Nine is that it is a private club. It is not.

While affordable memberships are available for those who want 24/7 access, the facility has public hours most days with a simple, accessible option. For a limited time from June through August, guests can visit https://thebackninegolf.com/evansville-ineast/ to book tee times for just $40 per hour for up to four players. That’s a heck of a deal! No long-term commitment. No pressure. Just book a time and show up ready to play. For those who are curious but not quite ready to commit, The Back Nine also offers a free demo experience. Guests can reserve a 60-minute private tour, practice session, and play time to get comfortable with the technology and the space.

It is part of Waller’s approach to making the experience feel premium without being exclusive.

BUILT ON EXPERIENCE, BACKED BY PURPOSE

Waller’s path to The Back Nine started long before the doors opened in Evansville.

A Washington, Indiana native, he spent more than 25 years living in Atlanta, GA working in professional sports, team marketing and sponsorship sales, including time with NBA organizations and the PGA TOUR. His career took him to larger markets and high-profile events, but eventually, the pace shifted.

“Family and a personal need for change brought me back home,” he says. “And I wanted to build something here that people could really enjoy. This is a community project that allows folks access to a premium quality experience that they otherwise wouldn’t have. ”

After returning to Indiana, Waller began consulting for several golf-related businesses and was then introduced to the Founder and CEO of The Back Nine to begin promoting the brand nationally. When interest grew but no one stepped in locally, he made the decision to do it himself.

The result is a space that reflects both his experience and his intention. It is polished without feeling corporate, and it carries a strong sense of local pride.

A custom mural inside the facility highlights Evansville’s rich golf history, featuring nods to area courses, universities, and the community. It is a reminder that while the experience may be high-tech, it is still rooted in something familiar.

More Than a Tee Time

While the simulators are the main attraction, The Back Nine is quickly becoming a go-to spot for more than just a round of golf.

The private studio layout makes it a natural fit for small events and gatherings. Corporate outings, birthday celebrations, client meetings, and team-building sessions all take on a different energy in a space that feels both relaxed and elevated.

There is no crowded bar, no competing noise. Just a shared experience built around the game.

Waller also has plans to introduce leagues, tournaments, and partnerships with local golf programs. Conversations are already underway with area schools and youth organizations, adding another layer to what The Back Nine can become within the community.

BEATING THE HEAT, ELEVATING THE GAME

With its blend of technology, accessibility, and thoughtful design, The Back Nine introduces a more focused way to experience the game in Evansville. It is a place where players can step inside, settle in, and give their full attention to the moment in front of them. As a cool, comfortable escape during the summer months, it is quickly positioning itself as a go-to destination across the Tri-State. As awareness grows, it stands to become a natural part of how the community plays, practices, and spends time together, no matter the season.

Location: 6840 Logan Drive, Suite C, Evansville website: https://thebackninegolf.com/ evansville-in-east/

phone: 812-769-GOLF

Summer Rate: $40 per hour (June through August, up to 4 players)

Membership: Optional, not required

Free Demo: 60-minute complimentary tour and play session

Best For:

Private events, corporate outings, birthdays, small group gatherings

Courses:

60+ including Victoria National, Pebble Beach, and St. Andrews

EVANSVILLE of A TASTE

MONTHLY FOOD REVIEW WITH BRIAN BUXTON

YANG’S SHABU SHABU

Although most restaurant experiences require minimal involvement from their patrons, the Japanese hot pot style of Nabemono is fully interactive, allowing your participation in all aspects of your meal. Not only do you make your choices from the menu, but you also mix your own broth, choose your seasonings, and complete the process by cooking everything at your table.

Shabu Shabu 101 ...

Shabu Shabu is one of 8 categories of the Japanese Nabemono style of cooking in a variety of hot pots. Nabemono is a compound of nabe, which translates to “cooking pot" and mono, meaning "thing.” While the concept of dipping meat and vegetables into boiling water can be traced back thousands of years across various Asian cultures, Shabu Shabu is said to have originated in the 13th century as a way for Genghis Khan to feed his soldiers quickly and efficiently while traveling in battle. Khan (c.1162 – Aug. 18th, 1227), was the founder of the Mongol Empire, which grew to become the largest contiguous empire in history.

The modern-day iteration of the process originated in Osaka, Japan, in 1952 at a restaurant called Suehiro. The name Shabu Shabu itself is onomatopoeic, meaning it phonetically suggests the sound it imitates – in this case the "swish swish" emitted when the ingredients are stirred in the cooking pot. This led to the name being formally adopted to describe the unique cooking action. Shabu Shabu rapidly spread across Asia and today is very popular in Western countries. To this day the cooking method focuses on fresh, high-quality ingredients, from lean

proteins to nutrient-dense vegetables.

The Process ...

You sit at tables with 4 individual induction burners built in. These are ultra efficient, flameless cooktops that use electromagnetism to heat the pot. The broth boils significantly faster as the pot itself acts as the heat source. Temperature adjustments are immediate, and since the glass surface is only slightly warmed from the residual heat of the pot, there is no risk of burns.

The first step is choosing your broth base (there are 6 choices), including hot & spicy, hot & sour, miso, herb, clear beef, and vegetable. Your pot is filled with your broth and immediately placed on the burner to come to a boil. Next you choose your proteins, vegetables and sides from the menu. You then visit the sauce bar to mix your choice of dipping sauces, and you’ll want to give some thought to the flavor profiles you want to create. Choose from garlic, vinegar, oyster, hot chili, pickled chive and many others. Add crushed peanuts, chives and scallions for more flavor and texture.

The menu offers something for everyone, including beef, lamb, chicken, sausage, fish fillet, shrimp, mussels, clams and crab sticks. More adventurous eaters can choose from beef tongue or beef tripe, squid and cuttlefish. Vegetables include broccoli, carrots, sweet potatoes, lotus root, bok choy, tofu, potatoes, pumpkin, white onion, cabbage, seaweed, taro and more. There is also a nice variety of mushrooms, including: wood ear, white, king, shiitake and enoki. Noodle choices

include udon, lo mein, rice, clear, instant and ramen. White rice is also an option.

Once the raw proteins, vegetables and sides you’ve chosen are brought to the table you begin the cooking process. Tofu, carrots, broccoli and other thicker vegetables will take longer than the thinly sliced meats, so those will go into the pot first. Nothing on the menu will take longer than three to four minutes to cook, but the meats may take only 15-20 seconds, depending on your preference of doneness. After your items have cooked you remove them from the pot and dip them in your sauce. It's an interesting and fun dining experience that encourages conversation and interaction at the table. Being able to choose what to cook together lends to a variety of flavor profiles, making the meal that much more enjoyable. Just be careful not to overcook anything!

For those who may be intimidated by the process, or would prefer their meal arrived cooked and plated, the kitchen also offers traditional appetizers such as soups, egg rolls, dumplings, crab rangoon, edamame and calamari, as well as a full traditional Chinese menu. Two of my favorites are the braised squid and the sauteed spicy pork, but on this visit we chose pepper steak and the Singapore Mei Fun (shrimp, chicken and beef with curry with rice noodles). A variety of Lo Meins, Chow Mei Funs, Chow Ho Fun and House Specials are also available. The all-you-can-eat hot

pots are $25.95, and there is also a lunch combo consisting of 1 broth, 1 meat, 1 choice of noodles or rice, and a choice of 5 vegetables for $13.95. This lunch special is available Mon-Fri from 11am to 3pm.

The drink options are just as varied – from iced tea, sodas, hot tea, flavored bubble tea, beer, wine and hot or cold sake. Pro tip: try the hot tea, which is brewed from a small, compressed tea leaf cake. The Taro Milk tea with black tapioca pearls is also excellent - a flavor similar to a sweet potato with creamy sweet milk. Their bubble teas are all made and packaged in-house.

The restaurants hours of operation are Mon & Wed–Sat: 11am to 9:00pm, Sun: 12 noon to 9pm, Tue: closed. There is a large parking lot for patrons. You can view their menu on their website (below), or find them on Facebook @yangsshabushabu

Although Yang’s opened on May 25th, 2016, I feel like it’s one of the true hidden gems in town. And it’s amazing to think you can enjoy a meal in the same way that Mongol warriors did over 800 years ago.

4700 Vogel Road, Evansville, IN (812) 471-8889

www.yangsshabushabuin.com

My food and dining page can be found at facebook.com/FFKSEvansville

Now Go, Explore, and Eat, Evansville!

ANYTHING ON WHEELS

WITH TOM LEGGETT

BRINGING THE WEST COAST FLAVOR TO EVANSVILLE: THE STORY BEHIND BESTCOAST TACOS

When Erik Martinez talks about tacos, he’s not just talking about food. He’s talking about identity, culture, and the kind of flavor that sticks with you long after the last bite.

Bestcoast Tacos, one of Evansville’s newest food truck additions, officially launched in June 2025, but the journey behind it started years earlier and surprisingly, with cookies.

Before tacos ever hit the grill, Martinez was building Cookie Plug in California. What began as a simple business idea quickly evolved into a growing operation that eventually outgrew its production

facility. As the business expanded, Erik and his partners, Lauren Martinez and Cassi Escamilla, began searching for a place that offered more room to grow and a better long-term foundation for business.

That search brought them to Evansville.

“We visited five locations across the country,” Martinez explained. “But Evansville didn’t feel like a compromise. It felt like an opportunity.”

By the summer of 2025, the team had officially relocated full time. The pace felt healthier, the community welcoming, and the environment more sustainable for entrepreneurship. There was just one problem: they couldn’t find the kind of Mexican food they grew up with on the West Coast.

“If you’re from California, you understand immediately,” Martinez said. “Mexican food there isn’t just good it’s the standard.”

That realization sparked the idea for Bestcoast Tacos, a food truck dedicated to bringing authentic California inspired street tacos and bold West Coast flavors to Southern Indiana.

The name itself is a nod to their roots.

“The West Coast is still home in our DNA,” Martinez said. “Bestcoast is our way of bringing that energy to Evansville.”

That energy shows up in every detail of the menu. From house made chorizo and fire roasted salsas to charcoal grilled meats and fresh daily corn tortillas, Bestcoast Tacos focuses on flavor layered with purpose. Customers have quickly embraced the truck’s smoky, vibrant approach to Mexican cuisine.

Martinez credits much of the business’s success to authenticity and consistency. Rather than trying to appeal to everyone, the team focuses on delivering food they genuinely believe in while building strong connections with the local community.

“We’re not trying to be everything to everyone,” he said. “We’re just trying to bring something real.”

That philosophy extends beyond the menu. Bestcoast Tacos sources meat and produce locally whenever possible, supporting the same community that has welcomed them so enthusiastically.

For Martinez, success isn’t measured solely in sales. It’s about impact, creating experiences people remember and inspiring others to chase their own ambitions.

“I’m just a regular guy,” he said. “If someone sees our story and thinks, ‘If he can build that, maybe I can too,’ then that means something.”

And judging by the growing lines at the truck, Evansville is more than ready for a taste of the Bestcoast.

Find them on Facebook

See you down the road!

WHAT'S ON THE

grill

SUMMER COOKOUT MENU:

SIMPLE, CROWD-PLEASING FAVORITES

Nothing says summer like a backyard cookout—good food, easy company, and the smell of the grill in the air.

BACON CHEESE DIP

Ingredients:

• ½ cup slivered almonds

• 8 slices bacon

• 8 oz. cream cheese, softened

• 1 cup mayonnaise

• 2 cups sharp cheddar, shredded

• 4 green onions, sliced (divided)

• ½ tsp kosher salt

• ¼ tsp black pepper

• ¼ tsp garlic powder

• Pinch cayenne

• Bagel chips, for serving

Instructions:

Toast almonds in a skillet over medium heat until golden, 5–7 minutes. Remove. In the same pan, cook bacon until crisp, 8–10 minutes; drain and crumble.

In a bowl, mix cream cheese and mayo until smooth. Fold in cheddar, almonds, bacon, 3 green onions, and seasonings. Chill 1 hour. Garnish with remaining onions and serve with bagel chips.

WITH JIM JOHNSON

GRILLED BBQ HOT DOGS WITH SPICY SLAW

Ingredients:

• 3 tbsp mayonnaise

• 2 tsp whole grain mustard

• 3 tbsp chopped pickled jalapeños + 1½ tsp brine

• 2 tbsp + 2 tsp barbecue sauce (divided)

• ¼ red cabbage, sliced

• ¼ green cabbage, sliced

• 1 carrot, grated

• 2 scallions, sliced

• 4 hot dogs

• 4 buns, toasted

Instructions:

Heat grill to medium. Whisk mayo, mustard, jalapeño brine, and 2 tsp BBQ sauce. Toss with cabbage, carrot, scallions, and jalapeños.

Score hot dogs in a crosshatch pattern. Grill, turning and brushing with remaining BBQ sauce, 3–5 minutes until charred. Serve in buns topped with slaw.

CLASSIC LEMON BARS

Crust Ingredients:

• 1 cup butter, softened

• ¾ cup sugar

• 2¼ cups flour

• ¼ cup powdered sugar

Filling Ingredients:

• 2 cups sugar

• ¼ cup flour

• 6 eggs

• ¾ cup lemon juice

• Zest of 1 lemon

• Powdered sugar, for dusting

Instructions:

Preheat the oven to 350°F. Grease a 9x13 pan. Cream butter and sugar, then mix in flour and powdered sugar. Press into the pan and bake for 20–25 minutes until lightly golden. Cool 30 minutes.

Whisk filling ingredients until smooth. Pour over the crust and bake for 25–30 minutes until set. Cool, dust with powdered sugar, and chill before slicing.

If you’d like more ideas or special requests, reach out to News 4U and Jim will include them in next month’s column.

Jim Johnson has won 78 Grand Championships on the BBQ circuit and is a founding member of the Kansas City BBQ Society (International Outreach Team). In addition, Jim has taught Americanstyle BBQ in over 40 countries worldwide.

He's also cooked at U.S. embassies and often feeds the troops at military bases. Just recently, Jim served 2500 BBQ plates for the Minnesota Air National Guard and for the Scott Air Force Base. As if all that wasn't enough, he helps to feed numerous non-profits in the Evansville area.

Restaurant

KEEPING YOU UP-TO-DATE ON THE COMINGS AND GOINGS OF AREA DINING ESTABLISHMENTS WITH BRIAN BUXTON

T411

he restaurant business is a rough road, and success is far from guaranteed in a business with many challenges and very narrow margins for profit. A study by Ohio State University found that 60% of new restaurants didn't make it past the first year, and 80% closed within five years. It's not a venture for the weak.

Here's a list of local spots we've recently lost, others that have recently opened, and some to look forward to in the coming weeks.

RECENTLY CLOSED:

APRIL:

Sunrise Café Family Restaurant at 2121 N. Green River Rd., Evansville, IN (Apr. 1st)

Kung Fu Chicken at 325 S. Green River Rd., Evansville, IN (Apr. 15th)

Mod Pizza Owensboro at 2710 Heartland Crossing Blvd., Owensboro, KY (Apr. 22nd)

Milano Italian Cuisine at 500 Main St., Evansville, IN (Apr. 24th)

Goodwood Owensboro at 101 Frederica St., Owensboro, KY - (April 24th)

Chicken Stop at 411 N. St. Joseph Ave., Evansville, IN - (April 27th)

Senor Burrito Mexican Grill at 606 North Main St., Evansville, IN – (April 29th)

DosBros Fresh Mexican at 3351 North First Ave, Evansville, IN - (March 30th)

RECENTLY OPENED:

APRIL:

The Foundry Room at the DoubleTree Hilton at 601 Walnut St., Evansville, IN (Apr. 2nd)

09 Mochi at 1223 Hirschland Rd., Ste. 101, Evansville, IN (Apr. 11th)

7Brew Coffee at 4011 Old State Route 261, Newburgh, IN (Apr. 13th)

Prime Sports Plus at 529 Main St., Vincennes, IN (Apr. 13th)

Sunrise Café Family Restaurant at 864 S Green River Rd, Evansville, IN. (Apr. 15th)

The Clover Club at 203 Main St. (under Patsy Hartigans), Evansville, IN (Apr. 15th)

Pappa Bears Catering at 122 N. Weinbach Ave. (Apr. 15th)

Jimmy John's at 3922 Orchard Lane (Apr. 15th)

MAY:

Tropical Smoothie Café at 8850 High Pointe Dr., Newburgh, IN (May 1st)

Nothing Bundt Cakes at 2490 Calumet Trace, #3, Owensboro, KY (May 8th)

Porch Light Coffee and Creamery at 3245 Mount Moriah Ave. (May 10th)

TT's Sammich'es at 1400 W. Maryland St., Evansville, IN (May 12th)

COMING SOON:

EVANSVILLE, IN

7Brew Coffee at 4301 N. First Ave. - 2026 (pending)

7Brew Coffee at 1250 N. Green River Rd. - 2026 (pending)

Aman Food Market at 900 E. Riverside Dr. - 2026 (pending)

Boba Tea at 1223 Hirschland Rd. - Spring 2026

Casa Mia Italian Restaurant at 119 SE 4th St., Evansville, IN - 2026 (pending)

Casey’s Deli at 2900 Lincoln Ave. - mid April 2026

Criollos Venezuelan Breakfast at 581 N. Green River Rd. - 2026 (pending)

Currito at Promenade off Burkhardt Rd. - 2026 (pending)

Dogtown Grill (formerly Tavern) at 6201 Old Henderson Rd. - 2026 (pending)

DosBros Fresh Mexican (new owner) at 3351 North First Ave. - June 2026

Dutch Bros. Coffee at 3416 N. First Ave. - 2026 (pending)

Fire Pot Korean BBQ & Hot Pot at 501 N. Green River Rd. - 2026 (pending)

Italian Restaurant (name tba) at 212 & 222 Main St. - 2026 (pending)

Kan Pai

All-You-Can-Eat Sushi at 581 N. Green River Rd. - May/June 2026 (pending)

Little Caesars Pizza at 901 St. Joe Ave. - 2026 (pending)

Madeleine's Fusion at 423 SE 2nd St., Evansville, IN (tba June)

BACK TO THE

basics

Magen Coates

Magen Coates is the owner of M’eggs Farms and Hatchery in southern Indiana, where she raises poultry and educates others about backyard chickens. She is an avid gardener and passionate about practical homesteading.

MANAGING SUMMER ON THE HOMESTEAD

birds. Even during the winter months, we need to have good airflow in our coops. Just make sure you install them well above their roosting area to avoid direct drafts when it’s cold.

Moisture control doesn’t stop at ventilation, using products like Coop Recuperate by Strong Animals on your bedding not only keeps moisture in check, but it offers natural pest prevention, because remember that fly strike has arrived…and it extends your bedding life, it smells amazing, and your chickens will love it. Feel free to use the code Meggsfarms20 for your online orders if you want to give it a try!

Fly strike is another unexpected summer problem that will happen to every chicken owner out there! Prevention is crucial on this one! Trying these methods can really help combat fly problems this time of year.

Avoid hanging fly traps with baits anywhere near your chicken coops, as it draws flies in, hang them far away instead. Make sure to wash all your coop cleaning tools off and store them outside of your coop. Take down roosting bars and ramps and give them a scrub from time to time, hanging

lavender, marigold and peppermint in bundles inside your coop is awesome for natural pest deterrent. Also, never dump chicken droppings by your coop. Flies will create their own sores on your chickens, lay eggs, and eat them from the inside out. It is so important to keep the fly load in check for your flock!

Summer also tends to expose another common homestead challenge: water management. Duck ponds, stock tanks, and small backyard water features can become frustrating quickly in warm weather. Ducks naturally stir mud, bedding, feathers, and food into their water, and many new duck owners become discouraged trying to keep ponds clear. In reality, duck ponds function more like small ecosystems than swimming pools.

Some foam, algae, or dark water from leaves and natural tannins can be completely harmless. The goal isn’t sterile water, it’s balanced water. Circulation, filtration, shade, and regular partial water changes usually matter far more than constantly draining and restarting your pond. Your duck's water is rich in nutrients, and amazing for your gardens. When we do partial water drains, we put that water directly in our gardens to give our plants a boost! A good rule of thumb for your duck pond is, if it doesn’t smell rotten, and the ducks aren’t avoiding it, your pond is usually okay!

Gardens require a different kind of attention once June heat settles in. One of the most common mistakes is shallow watering. While a quick daily spray may seem helpful, it often encourages weak surface roots that

dry out faster during hot weather. Deep watering less often usually creates stronger, healthier plants that can better tolerate heat and dry spells.

Mulch becomes incredibly valuable this time of year as well. Natural undyed, real wood mulch, like wood chips from your local tree service, are far superior than bagged mulch created from pallets with harmful dyes and chemicals. Mulch helps retain moisture, regulate soil temps, and reduce weeds. It also cuts down significantly on how much your garden needs watered.

June turns spring excitement into summer maintenance, but the reward is unmatched. A lot of homesteaders and local farmers are working tirelessly this time of year to produce abundant gardens, breads, fresh eggs, honey, jams and more. Be sure to stop by your local farm stands, to support their hard work. Take your family to a farmer’s market, and try something grown, or made by real people, your neighbors, who care about what you feed to your families. Look up a local non-commercial nursery, buy a fruit tree, and plant it with a loved one. These aren’t just places to find real food, yes I said it, REAL food, these are places to get real advice from people about your gardens, trees, bees, breads, canning and chickens.

Let’s be a community again. Support local, and happy homesteading everyone.

June turns spring excitement into summer maintenance ,

but the reward is unmatched.

Summer has a way of opening the door to both memory-making and money-spending. Vacations, day trips, extra groceries, and back-to-school prep all seem to hit at once. For many families, it can feel like everything is happening at the same time financially.

The good news is that it does not have to feel chaotic.

Start by getting a clear picture of where you stand. Before booking trips or filling carts, take a look at your income, regular expenses, and what you realistically have available for summer extras. Even a quick check-in can help you avoid that late-summer squeeze when bills stack up.

From there, decide what matters most. Maybe this is the year for a bigger vacation. Maybe it is about keeping things simple with local plans and smaller outings. There is no right answer, but choosing your priority early makes everything else easier. It gives your spending direction instead of letting it spiral. It also helps to break your budget into a few simple categories. Think travel, dining, entertainment, and back-to-school. When you can see where your money is going, you are more likely to stay in control of it.

DOLLARS & SENSE:

MAKING SUMMER SPENDING WORK FOR YOU

You might even find areas where a small adjustment frees up room for something more meaningful.

Vacations are often the biggest expense, but they are also the most flexible. Traveling during the week instead of weekends can lower costs. Staying closer to home or planning a short getaway instead of a long trip can make a big difference. Even small choices, like packing snacks or cooking a few meals, add up quickly and help stretch your budget further.

At home, summer brings its own changes. Kids are out of school, which often means higher grocery bills and more activities to fill the days. Planning meals ahead and mixing in free or low-cost outings can help balance that out. Local parks, community events, and simple day trips can go a long way without adding much to your spending.

As summer starts to wind down, back-toschool season creeps in. This is where a little planning can really pay off. Instead of waiting until the last minute, start setting aside money early. Spreading those expenses out makes them much easier to manage.

Before heading to the store, take inventory of what you already have. It may feel like a hassle, but it often saves more than anything else. Many families already have supplies that can be reused. Pair that with seasonal sales or second-hand options, and the savings can add up quickly.

There is also value in bringing your kids into the process. Let them see how decisions are made and why certain choices matter. It builds awareness and helps them understand that money is a tool, not something that just appears when needed.

Summer spending does not have to feel overwhelming. With a little intention and a simple plan, it becomes something you can manage instead of something that manages you. The goal is not to cut out the fun. It is to make sure the fun fits your life, not the other way around.

QUICK WINS FOR SUMMER SAVINGS

• Pick one main summer priority and build around it

• Travel midweek or closer to home to cut costs

• Plan a few meals in instead of dining out every time

• Check what you already have before shopping

• Start back-to-school purchases early

• Take advantage of free local events and activitiess

WITH RACHEL BUDDE / THE BUDGET BLUEPRINT

Rachel Budde is a Dave Ramsey certified financial coach and runs The Budget Blueprint, a credit repair business, in Evansville, IN.

QUICK FIT

WITH THOMAS BLANE

What is Quick Fit?

Simply put, Quick Fit is all about exploring different gyms, restaurants, and sports nutrition stores, showcasing what they have to offer, and hopefully sparking your interest in trying something new.

I want you all to see things through my lens as I share my experiences at various places. There are so many cool things to do in Evansville and the surrounding Tri-State area, and my goal is to experience as much as possible and share it with you. My hope is that by stepping out of my comfort zone, I can inspire you to do the same.

Save a Moment for Yourself

Hi everyone, welcome back to QuickFit. I’m your writer and personal host on this journey to a better you. This one is special to me. Because of all of you and your feedback, I can honestly say I look forward to this time we share. It means a lot to be able to highlight what’s out there and what we can learn right here in our own town.

This month is a little different. It’s not about physical strength, but about finding mental clarity and spiritual fuel to help you get closer to God. I recently finished a book that helped me start reading the Bible for myself, at my own pace.

It started back in January. I saw my cousin post about a book he was working on. It was not out yet, but the Kindle version was available. I decided to wait for the hard copy. I didn’t even know what it was about. I just wanted to support him. I respect anyone trying to create something positive, and that deserves support.

A few weeks later, he posted that the hardbacks were ready. I didn’t ask questions. I just clicked purchase and waited. When it arrived, I sent him a picture holding the book and told him I would let him know what I thought. He replied, “Take your time. Study it. Take breaks and really think about what you read.” I remember thinking, okay, sure. I had no idea what I was getting into.

That night, after picking up my kids, making dinner, and getting everyone settled, I climbed into bed and finally started reading: Rewriting the Life You Stole by Dejiour.

Right away, I realized this was not just a casual read. I found myself slowing down, reflecting, and honestly reconnecting with God in a way I had not in a long time. The book walks you through different sections of the Bible and real-life trials we all face. After each lesson, there is space to write your thoughts and reflect on what stood out to you.

I started noticing something. After finishing a section, I would go to work or the gym and carry a piece of that lesson with me. I would think about how it applied to my day. Some lessons hit hard, like “Being Born Again: Have You Truly Started Over?” or “Where Identity Meets Calling.” The one that stayed with me the most was “What Are You Doing With Your Belief?”

These lessons challenged me. They pushed me to look at myself and recognize habits and situations that were holding me back. I appreciated how direct the book was. It put me on the spot in the best way. After each section, I would take a day, sometimes a week, before moving on. I wanted to actually apply what I learned, not just read and forget.

The book is structured as a 15-day study, but it took me over a month to complete. By the end, something shifted. I found myself opening up Genesis on my own, without prompts. I just started reading, and I have not stopped since.

I don’t know where everyone stands on reading the Bible, but I do know you all show up to read this. If this speaks to you at all, I recommend checking out this book on Amazon. It helped kickstart my own journey, and for that, I’m grateful.

I want to give a genuine thank you to my cousin, Eshawn Smith, for creating something this powerful. This book helped me discover a part of myself I didn’t even realize was there.

Love you, cuz. Keep shining. This book is going to reach the people who need it most.

** Thomas “T.J.” Blane is a trainer in Evansville, IN. He is a self-proclaimed humble goof ball who just likes to help people reach their fitness potential. His first goal as a trainer is to help you build confidence in your abilities. Blane is equipped with the tools to build a workout plan adaptable to the needs of clients. He additionally has expertise with issues such as hyper-mobile joints, heart conditions, and more. Follow T.J. for tips and inspiration at Facebook and Instagram @trainwithblane

by Brittany Nelson

Who Decided This Is Mine?

Right now I am sitting here choosing to write instead of doing the things I need to do. Because I want to do what I want to do. There’s a tiny bit of guilt in that, but nowhere near what it used to be. Thank God. I used to think it all fell on me, as if it was simply my responsibility. Even though I obviously live in a whole house full of other people.

Life as it is currently is hectic. Medical issues I am facing. Medical issues my kid is facing. Big ones with big—and exhausting— journeys. Add to that the fight of trying to get my other neurodivergent kid the accommodations she needs to succeed in school—and life in general—when no one really, truly understands exactly what her diagnosis is. Then there’s mental health for the entire family because, well… those issues run deep in my genetics.

And yeah, the everyday stuff exists too. The house is a wreck. Laundry out my ears. Kids with homework, practice, games, and attitudes. Financial stressors. Schedules to manage when there doesn’t seem to be enough time. Etc., etc., etc.

So here I am, writing. Maybe it’s just to get it all out. I can say it out loud and express just how much pressure I am under, but sometimes it feels like people don’t actually hear me. It’s kind of like, “Yeah, that’s tough.” And I’m kind of like, “Gee, thanks for the support.”

Sure, I can ask for help. I do sometimes. Actually, I’m not asking—I’m telling. But that gets tiring too. So a lot of the time, I just do it because I don’t want to have to ask or tell, and that is exhausting in itself.

I’m under the assumption that what’s obvious is… obvious. To everyone. Except it’s not. But it is.

I think it works like this: if I don’t say anything about it, then it doesn’t need to be done. Or maybe the thought is, I’ll get to it when I get to it. Or I’ll eventually ask—tell— someone else to do it.

One day, when I walked by the toilet that desperately needed cleaning, I felt that familiar dread. I didn’t want to clean it. Then, almost immediately, came the guilt because I should just clean it. But then I caught myself.

Why do I feel guilty about not wanting to do

it? No one else wants to do it either, right? Right. So they don’t. And that somehow makes it my responsibility? No. Absolutely not. I’m allowed to not want to do it too. Which means I am allowed not to do it as well.

Except I did it.

And somehow, while I was doing the dang thing—cleaning a toilet I did not want to clean—it felt powerful. Not because I was cleaning it, but because I was acknowledging something bigger: I am one person, and I should not be expected to take on the tasks of everyone else.

Truthfully, I built that monster myself. I measured my own value and worth by whether or not I could get everything done— and I do mean everything—only to feel like a failure when I couldn’t.

So these words you’re reading now? They are evidence of a time when I decided to choose myself and work through the tiny bit of guilt that still tends to linger when I start to forget that I’m allowed to do that.

Oh, and just in case you didn’t know…

So are you.

Check out more of Brittany’s work at https://substack.com/@sparkplugletters

Brittany is a self-labeled feel everything type of girl and born-again writer after 20 years. She writes every which way because her brain works that way too: raw, tender, funny, feral, messy, a little poetic and alive. No neat niches and absolutely too much to fit into one box— human magic, hard truths, and whatever won't leave her alone.

I am tired.

CreativeCurrents Breaking Out of the Rut

by Zach Vaughn

Being an artist is a vulnerable job. Depending on your process, you can spend countless hours or days trying to lock into your creative expression. It’s not always easy, and when it’s not happening, you can feel lost and fearful. It can also be difficult to find inspiration after you’ve been let down, you receive criticism, or rejection. When things weren’t going my way, I wasn’t always sure where my inspiration would come from next.

As life improved, new opportunities came my way and the opportunities that made the

most significant impact on my creativity were the experiences I had from traveling. Living in Evansville gives us the opportunity to explore other cities in all directions by car or plane in just a few hours. There is a mystique in the exploration and discovery of what new and unknown cities have to offer. Not only can you explore the arts, but you uncover new cultures, customs, and experiences that make every encounter unique and expand my perspective and my artistic process.

Being exposed to some of the most reputable artists in the world at the MOMA in New York City and Art Institute of Chicago are moments that will forever have an imprint on me. Knowing the things I am seeing have existed long before me and will long after me, reminds me of the timelessness and importance of creativity. Observing other

ways of life in how people speak, eat, and dress inspires me to try new things and stay open to the variety that is possible.

During the times in my life when I felt stagnant and stationary, traveling and experiencing new places felt out of reach. I gave myself excuses and created limitations around the cost and time that were available to me. I have now come to realize how much is possible to experience in even just a long weekend away. There are affordable ways to explore and experience places by staying with friends or relatives, using credit card points, or eliminating the unnecessary expenses. Like creativity and self-expression, it all begins by keeping an open mind and the willingness to break out of your comfort zone.

Breaking out of my familiarity has changed my mind on what life is about and my stance on being stationary. Traveling, experiencing, asking questions, and opening my mind takes me out of the rut of just existing and reminds me that I am living. I am then able to come home with a new sense of motivation and inspiration and appreciate what is available in our own community with a fresh perspective. Getting out of the rut does not just apply to artistic people. It’s easy to slip into a pattern that feels mundane and uninspiring. We can all benefit from shaking it up, experiencing something new, creating an adventure, and keeping our mind open.

Snap Local

Exploring Evansville’s most Instagrammable spots, one snap at a time.

BY LINDSAY SCOTT

Golden Hour Evansville

Ah, summer in the Midwest: a season of heat and humidity, but also some of the most picturesque golden-hour sunsets you have ever imagined. You know what I’m talking about. You head into the grocery store at 6 p.m. on a Friday after a long day at work. You fight the lines, grab your favorite pint of ice cream (because it’s 101 degrees outside, it’s the weekend, and you deserve this), and you mentally prepare yourself to battle traffic on the way home and kick off your weekend. When you step outside with your grocery bags in hand, and BOOM. The sky is absolutely ablaze with the most stunning orange, pink, and purple hues. All you can do is stand in awe for a moment because, truly, you have never seen a sky so gorgeous. Your ice cream is melting as you try to take a picture. You’re in a parking lot, not a mountaintop or oceanfront, so photos just don’t capture the majesty of this Ohio Valley phenomenon. As you drive home watching the sky fade from a brilliant kaleidoscope to a deep summer darkness, you wonder to yourself, “Why are parking lot golden-hours always the most glorious?”

While parking lot sunsets somehow always seem to deliver, Evansville has plenty of places where golden hour can truly show off. From glowing river views to shaded park paths and patio lights flickering on

at dusk; let’s talk about the best viewing places. After all, a sunset in Evansville doesn’t require expensive plans or some elaborate summer itinerary. Sometimes all it takes is the right playlist, a warm evening breeze, and a sky dramatic enough to make you pull over for a picture.

Evansville Riverfront

This location is the definition of understanding the golden hour assignment. The Ohio River reflects every color, turning each sunset into a full production. Because the Riverfront Greenway Path faces west, walkers, runners, bikers, and couples sitting on benches all seem to glow in this evening light. The warm pastels of rainbow hues dance off the building’s reflections and soften their silhouettes from behind. It truly is my favorite place in town to watch the sun go down.

Patio Season

Summer patios deserve their own personality trait. As the sky fades into cotton candy colors, the string lights switch on and your cold drinks sweat against the tabletops while conversation flows effortlessly between you and your friends. Although it’s visually getting darker, sitting on a patio as the sun goes down feels lighter. June is when Evansville fully leans into patio season, and everyone should be taking advantage of it. Whether it’s dinner on Franklin Street, appetizers

˄ Lindsay Scott is a teacher for EVSC who was born and raised in Evansville, and loves sharing appreciation for her hometown city.

in Newburgh, or just some iced coffee at home on the front porch, patios at golden hour feel like a tiny vacation hidden inside the day-to-day life.

Parks and Paths

Not every golden hour moment has to happen in the city. Some of the best summer evenings happen in quieter places where the sunlight filters through the trees into soft streaks across walking paths. Wesselman Woods and Howell Wetlands feel cool and shaded in the evenings, while Garvin Park catches sunset glows from the lake reflections. The soundtrack swaps from the electric buzz of the city to the softer hum of cicadas, birds, and breezes through the leaves. Instead of headlights and stringlights, fireflies start clocking in for an even more magical night shift. It’s basically impossible not to romanticize your life, at least a little bit, while walking through a park at golden hour.

Golden hour doesn’t last very long, so it’s really not so much about the exact moment. It’s more about where you are, what you’re doing, and how that moment feels. It’s a snowcone after dinner, even though you weren’t hungry. It’s driving with the windows down while your favorite song from high school blasts from the speakers. It’s stopping to watch the sunset for no reason other than the fact that it’s pretty, and you deserve to see it. Evansville is full of these short moments, if you’re willing to notice them. That brevity is exactly what makes it so special.

Reitz Hill

Evansville Riverfront

Howell Park and Wetlands

Ask an

Attorney

WITH LANE SIESKY / SIESKY LAW FIRM, PC

Focusing on personal injury, civil litigation, whistleblower claims and workers' compensation law, Siesky Law Firm strives to provide excellent legal services while remaining client and community centered. The Evansville-based trio of top attorneys - including Lane Siesky, Daniel Gearhart and Douglas Briody - boasts years of invaluable experience inside and outside the courtroom. Highly-respected with an impeccable track record, the firm's aggressive representation of its clients continues to benefit the community in myriad ways.

Intense, Relentless Focus

You may wonder, what makes a good litigator? Talent, smarts, skill all matter, but so do grit, a sense of urgency, a backbone and confidence.

I am a U2 fan. In his recent work, including Stories of Surrender, U2’s Bono has described the intense, often selfish focus necessary to create art and achieve artistic greatness. He has often reflected on how this drive to make something of their lives required a relentless, almost selfish dedication.

Litigating large, complex personal injury cases is no different. For a personal injury law firm, litigation can take years of meticulous

work, investing tens of thousands of dollars hiring experts and paying case expenses, and fighting against opposing counsel. At times, the Court must get involved to resolve disputes. There is stress. Sometimes sleepless nights. Yet, the firm does not get paid as litigation unfolds. Indeed, the firm only gets paid if there is a recovery.

All the while, you try not to lose sight of the goal in representing (serving) your client and the client’s family in finding the truth of what really happened and why and trying to effectuate change so that this situation does not happen again to someone else. There are wins and losses along the way. To stay the course, there must be an intense, relentless focus. Passion. Talent alone is not enough. You have heard it said, “anything truly worthwhile is rarely easy and most

things that come easy do not last.” This is true in litigation.

I often tell my kids, if you are going to do something in life - do it well. Don’t be afraid. Work hard. Hard work is not your enemy. Do not try to find creative ways to avoid hard work. You want to work smart as well, but there is nothing wrong with hard work. In fact, hard work is a requirement to accomplish something truly great. This is true in litigation, and I believe it is true for most great things in life.

— Ask a Lawyer

If you have a legal question you would like addressed in a future column of Ask the Lawyer, feel free to submit it to the magazine. Email: info@news4uevv.com

Disclaimer: The above information provided by Siesky Law Firm, PC, is not legal advice and should not be taken as legal advice. Application of the law is highly fact sensitive and readers should consult with an attorney on legal matters. *This is an advertisement.

The word "passive" as used in the phrase "passive income" is anything BUT passive when it comes to being an independent landlord. When you first dipped your toes into the world of rental properties, you likely envisioned a future lifestyle featuring comfortable lounge chairs, tropical beverages, and a bank account that swelled effortlessly on the first of every month while you soaked in the fruits of your retirement planning. It was a beautiful, cinematic dream sold by smooth-talking real estate podcasters and late-night financial gurus. For a while, maybe it even felt real. But then reality knocked, and harsh truths of the life of a landlord began to hit home.

There comes a moment in every independent landlord’s journey when they must ask themselves a fundamental question: am I a real estate investor, or am I just an unpaid amateur plumber? If you have ever found yourself watching old school YouTube tutorials on how to clear a main sewer line blockage while your tenant follows you around the house with a look of disappointment that you didn’t just call a plumber, then you have officially crossed a threshold.

Professional property managers possess a toolbox full of qualified contractors who know what they are doing, and more importantly, ones who answer their phones no matter what time of the night it might be.

After the headaches of repairs, the art of rent collection is the next hurdle to surpass. In the early days, you assume everyone just pays their bills the way that you do, only to find out that you may end up playing the

REAL ESTATE RADAR

WITH PINNACLE REALTY GROUP & PINNACLE PROPERTY MANAGEMENT

When to Fire Yourself as a Landlord

PRESENTED BY PINNACLE REALTY GROUP

role of a polite but increasingly desperate bounty hunter. You try to decipher fact from fiction in the never-ending list of excuses, ranging from the classic my check was short last week, to far more elaborate excuses involving personal sickness, illness of loved ones, or anything to tug at your heart strings just a bit. Once you find yourself “feeling bad” for every excuse thrown your way, you are no longer managing an investment asset; you are being managed by it.

Many times, the reason you end up experiencing pains in the rent collection department have a lot to do with poor screening of your potential tenant. Independent landlords almost exclusively rely on the "good vibe check” opposed to a legitimate tenant screening process. You meet an applicant, they seem genuine enough, and you shake hands, confident you have found the ideal resident for your rental. Three months later, you discover that the “good job” they had was their third of the year, and that they spend more time not working than they do on an actual job, and that they reason they were looking to move had far less to do with the need to be closer to work or school than it did the fact that they were in the process of being evicted for nonpayment, or something potentially worse.

Professional property managers do not rely on vibes. They utilize cold, hard data, thorough background checks, employment verification, and credit scores that tell the objective truth. If your screening process is based on intuition opposed to professional screening methods, you are playing financial Russian roulette with your equity.

Finally, beyond the day-to-day chaos of maintenance and rent collection lies the most terrifying shadow of property management mistakes, the legal system. Landlord-tenant laws are complex, everevolving minefields that vary by state, city,

and neighborhood. Do you know the exact statutory notice period required before entering the premises for an inspection in your jurisdiction? Are you entirely certain your lease agreement complies with the latest fair housing amendments regarding emotional support animals? Is your late fee within your states legal range? If the phrase wrongful eviction lawsuit gives you heart palpitations, you may be in over your head.

Professional property managers are trained, licensed and regulated professionals, who live within these rules and regulations daily, ensuring your investment remains on the correct side of the law without requiring you to always keep a lawyer on retainer!

Ultimately, hiring a professional property manager is not a confession of failure; it is usually an act of liberation. It is the exact moment you recognize, THIS is how you can scale from a 1-2 property landlord to a long-term real estate investor. When you hand over those keys to a professional team, you are not just outsourcing tasks; you are buying back your peace of mind, your weekends, and your sanity. And that, all ironies aside, is the closest you will ever actually get to true passive income.

Office Contact:

Pinnacle Property Mgmt. / EvvRentals.com 4600 Washington Avenue, Suite 105 Evansville, IN 47714 (812) 916-4948 | leasing@evvrentals.com

COMEDY & CURIOSITIES

WITH DANNY BROWNING

Over the past several months, I have made intentional detours across four states to visit Buc-ee’s locations. Yes, on purpose. Some of these were family trips. Some were solo runs. All of them were completely unnecessary and deeply important to me. I kept a journal because what happens inside a Buc-ee’s deserves documentation, and just in case of a possible police report.

October. Leeds, Alabama. Exit 140 off I-20 - I want a photo with the Buc-ee beaver. The beaver is 12 feet tall, made of fiberglass, and has been smiling for what I assume is decades. He’s not going anywhere. And yet I’m somehow standing behind what has become a fully unorganized, fully committed line of families who have decided their children need this photo more than anything in life. I noticed on the way in that Buc-ee’s has lockers out front. I didn’t know what they were for at the time. By minute fourteen of waiting, I understood. That’s where you store your dignity before you go inside. I never got my shot. The beaver stared at me the whole time like he’d seen this before and found it pathetic. He’s not wrong.

December. Kodak, Tennessee. Buc-ee’s Boulevard. (Yes, that’s the actual address.) This location is 74,000 square feet. For

reference, that is larger than most Indiana high school gymnasiums and roughly the same square footage as my sense of regret after entering the merchandise wall. My daughter spotted a hoodie. I bought the hoodie, a travel mug, and a refrigerator magnet that says “It’s Potty Time.” Total price - $75. I still haven’t even got gas.

February. Daytona Beach, Florida. 2:47 AM - Nobody warns you about the 3 AM Buc-ee’s experience. I pulled off I-95 expecting a quiet pit stop and walked into a full production. Families. Children. A man in cargo shorts eating a brisket sandwich with the focused intensity of someone who had been thinking about that sandwich since he committed a grizzly murder somewhere in Georgia. The fluorescent lights hummed at a frequency that felt personally aggressive. A woman near the fudge display was FaceTiming someone named Gerald at full volume at 3 AM. Gerald did not look happy to be awake, but still put in a very loud order for beef jerky and fudge that tasted like root beer. I bought a coffee and stood very still, trying to figure out where these people came from and where they were going. Nobody made eye contact, and that was fine by me.

March. Richmond, Kentucky. Southbound on I-75 - Beaver Nuggets. I need to address Beaver Nuggets. They are delicious. I want that stated clearly and on record before I say anything else. They are also, upon closer inspection, made of ingredients I cannot pronounce and probably should not have researched. I have eaten them in five states across three seasons. I finished an entire bag between Florence and the North Carolina border, looked at the back of the empty bag, and made the important decision to never look at the back of the bag again. I will be purchasing them in a sixth state. Possibly a seventh.

I still haven’t gotten that photo, but I’m going back to Leeds in the fall. This time, I’m getting there an hour early and leaving my dignity in the locker where it belongs.

Danny Browning is a Nationally Touring Comedian and Owner of Laughing Dad Entertainment

Danny Browning @dannycomedy

Irecently had an MRI for shoulder pain. No big. Before the procedure, the nurse asked me what I wanted to listen to. Whether I’m in the car, in the shower, doing dishes, or getting an MRI, the answer is the same: nothing. I can’t listen to music casually. It consumes me, and it doesn’t matter if I love it or hate it. I will lose every thought to the song. So, I almost always choose silence. If that surprises you, you might want to consider what neuroscientists call the Default Mode Network (DMN): a constellation of brain regions that activates not when we're focused, but when we're doing nothing.

First mapped in the early 2000s by Washington University researcher Marcus Raichle, the DMN was initially dismissed as neural background noise — the brain idling between tasks. We now know it's anything but. The DMN is where the brain stitches together disparate memories, simulates future scenarios, and generates the kind of unexpected associative leaps that define creative breakthroughs. It is, in the truest neurological sense, the imagination engine where daydreams get carved into reality. And we're starving it.

The average person now checks their phone over 140 times a day. Every gap — at the coffee shop, the pause between songs, the red light — is immediately filled with a scroll. These micro-interruptions are not neutral. Each one collapses the idle state

LINDSEY

on the scene

BY LINDSEY JAMES WILLIAMS

Can You Not?! You Should. Not.

the DMN requires to do its slow, fertile work. Psychologist Sandi Mann at the University of Central Lancashire has demonstrated that boredom doesn't dull creative output — it actively increases it. In her studies, participants who performed monotonous tasks before creative challenges significantly outperformed those who jumped straight in. Boredom may feel like torture when you just want the time to pass. (By the way, I opted for some Pink Floyd once I saw that claustrophobia tube. No big!) But under ordinary circumstances, when the mind has nothing to process, it generates its own material. I certainly know my music needs a boost. (Stimulate yo mind, Craig! You ain’t got shit to do!!)

Solitude works the same way. Decades of research on creative achievement — from Mihaly Csikszentmihalyi's (no, my cat didn’t walk across the keyboard) studies of flow states to more recent work on "incubation periods" — consistently shows that unstructured, solo downtime is when ideas grow from a tiny acorn into a mighty oak bedroom suit. The crowded, alwaysconnected creative workspace, however stimulating it feels, disrupts the very processes that generate original thought.

For musicians, this should land with some urgency. The industry increasingly rewards constant output: content cycles, social media presence, reactive releases. The artist who disappears for two years to think is increasingly seen as a liability. But that disappearance — the long walk, the empty

afternoon, the deliberate refusal to fill silence — may be the exact condition under which a genuinely new sound is possible.

So what should we be doing better?

Schedule NOTHING! Block off ????????? the way you schedule sessions or a gig, and stick to it like the boss is watching. Take walks with a notepad instead of headphones. Create a phone-free zone or try a focus app like Brick. Recently, I restricted Google to just the search bar. No news. No ads. No updates about something David Gilmour said.

Practice solitary input: reading — congratulations, you are doing it right now. Or may I recommend The Creative Act by Rick Rubin. Walk unfamiliar routes — Wesselman or Audubon parks perhaps or sit with an instrument and no objective. These aren't distractions from work. They are the work. Of course, you have to eventually commit to bring it to life, whether it’s music or just music as a metaphor in your world, however:

The silence between the notes is what makes music; the silence between the moments is what makes YOU make music.

(PS: the MRI results looked like I had dislocated and broken my clavicle ages ago without treatment. Beats me. Maybe someone did.)

www.lindseyjameswilliams.com for more info.

EACH MONTH WE’LL BE CHECKING IN WITH THE VHS FOR THE LATEST GOOD NEWS AND TO HELP FIND FUREVER HOMES FOR SOME OF THEIR MORE UNIQUE AND OLDER RESIDENTS

CHLOE: Meet Chloe, a delightful 5-year-old mixed breed! With her shy yet sweet demeanor, she’s certain to win your heart. If you’re looking for a calm companion who loves to chill and enjoy life at a relaxed pace, Chloe is your girl! Chloe loves to snuggle and often displays her goofy side once she’s comfortable. Her favorite toy is a flamingo that she adores! Chloe thrives on patience and slow introductions to new friends, both humans and animals. With the right approach, she’ll blossom into the loving sidekick you’ve always wanted. For just $200, you can give this lovely lady the forever family she deserves.

EMERY: Meet Emery, a 1-year-old Torbie! This independent feline thrives on her own terms, always finding ways to entertain herself when she thinks no one is watching. Emery also has a keen nose for treats, embarking on delightful treasure hunts around the house to sniff out her favorite snacks. With a curious yet cautious nature, Emery prefers to observe her surroundings. You’ll often find her perched above, surveying her domain from a quiet distance. However, don’t let her calm demeanor fool you—when the zoomies hit, it’s a whole different story! For just $100, you can bring Emery home today!

ROSIE: Meet Rosie! This 6-year-old tabby is a chatty girl who loves to be involved in everything you do, and makes her presence known. Whether you're cooking, working, or just lounging on the couch, Rosie will be right by your side, making sure she’s a part of the action. Rosie’s love for food is unparalleled! She'll do whatever it takes to snag a tasty treat—whether it’s her own or not! If you’re a foodie, you’ll definitely want this little kitchen helper around. Just be prepared for some begging and maybe a few cheeky antics to get her paws on a snack! You can adopt Rosie today for just $100!

VACCINE CLINIC

WARRICK HUMANE SOCIETY

PET OF THE MONTH Meet Rowdy

Rowdy is an affectionate, playful, and social dog with a big personality. He enjoys being around people and is happiest when he is included in whatever his humans are doing, whether that is going for a walk or simply spending time together at home.

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He is also friendly and wellmannered, already knowing basic commands such as “sit” and doing well with routine and structure. Rowdy is dog-friendly from what we have observed and has even formed a friendship with another of our adoptable dogs, Daisy May. He would thrive in a home that can provide both consistency and active engagement. He has been selective with some male dogs.

To help Rowdy find his match, his adoption fee is currently 20% off. Rowdy is neutered, up to date on all vaccines, deworming, and prevention, and is microchipped. He is ready to go home! He has been waiting a long time for the right family, and we believe that person is out there— he just hasn't met them yet.

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If you are interested in adopting Rowdy, please complete an application on our website at warrickhumanesociety.org/ adoption. Applications are reviewed in the order they are received. You are also welcome to visit and meet him during our open hours, WednesdayThursday from 12-7pm and Friday-Sunday from 12-4pm.

Our goal is to raise $1 25 million Find out more here!

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PHOTO CREDIT: MARIAH MCCLAIN PHOTOGRAPHY

LAST WORD FEATURES: THE DEVIL WEARS PRADA 2

BY JARED RASIC

GRADE: B+

As someone who has dressed like a color blind retiree since childhood, I know next to nothing about couture, modern fashion, or why one designer brand outranks another. Watching “The Devil Wears Prada” all the way back in the year of our lord 2006, I knew the film really wasn’t “for me,” yet I still enjoyed it as a rare glimpse into a world I will never know. Rewatching it ahead of the release of “The Devil Wears Prada 2,” I still found a lot to like, but also a healthy dose of annoyance.

The original story is familiar: Andy Sachs (Anne Hathaway), a “serious” journalist, lands a job at Runway Magazine, a glossy, high-fashion monthly focused on the latest designers and couture. She becomes the second assistant to Miranda Priestly (Meryl Streep), the cruel and cold editor-in-chief. Along the way, she falls for the fashion world, navigates a complicated frenemy relationship with first assistant, Emily (Emily Blunt), and finds a true mentor in Nigel Kipling (Stanley Tucci).

Twenty years later, the four central

performances shine. Streep disappears into Miranda --the hushed cadence of her voice, the chilly delivery -- even if her relentless monstrousness is exhausting by the end. Despite the film’s attempts to humanize her, she remains objectively a terrible person; the way she treats the people around her (especially Nigel) makes it hard to sympathize with her, even when we do get those flashes of humanity.

But the real era-specific frustration lies in Andy’s personal life. The 2006 script treats her intelligence as a journalist and her emotional maturity as secondary to her mediocre boyfriend, Nate. Played by the pretty charisma vacuum Adrian Grenier, Nate is a mopey chef who constantly runs the gamut between annoyed, jealous and confused by Andy’s success, yet the script treats him sympathetically. He genuinely, profoundly sucks as a partner, yet the movie highlights his moral compass. When Andy contemplates moving to Boston with him at

the end, I found myself silently screaming for her to run away from the handsome boy with the slow, cow eyes.

Don’t even get me started on Christian (Simon Baker), the blonde, well-dressed, slimy-chic journalist she’s immediately attracted to in Paris. He’s startlingly misogynistic, most assuredly a player, but Andy seems all in. After an ill-advised tryst, Andy acts surprised that he’s a scumbag in the light of day. She’s smarter than that and if the movie had been made today, she would have seen him coming from a mile away.

Luckily, here we are two decades later with “The Devil Wears Prada 2,” a film that not only fixes the original’s flaws, but also tells a thoughtful story about the death of print media and the internal rot of populist journalism.

Andy returns to Runway after two decades to serve as the features editor after the

magazine fails to vet a puff piece on a brand using sweatshop labor. Miranda is still the tyrant-in-chief, but she’s now struggling to keep Runway relevant in an era of TikTok influencers, where glamour has been replaced by algorithms. Nigel remains her long-suffering-in-silence right-hand man and Emily is now a senior executive at Dior.

Every character has lived decades of life since the last film and returning writer Aline Brosh McKenna’s script is intelligent and human enough to treat them like complicated people. Along with returning director David Frankel, “The Devil Wears Prada 2” feels less like a legacy sequel designed to pick your pocketbook and more like a reckoning with the state of modern pop media. It’s still catty and filled with more costume changes than a Taylor Swift show, but it truly shines through those same four characters.

The script treats these characters as people who have actually lived a life since the last movie. Hathaway brings an effortless, weary intelligence to Andy. Blunt finds a softness in Emily, now a mother, that makes her desperation for genuine friendship truly endearing. Tucci remains the "fairy godmother" of our

dreams, radiating a winking warmth. But again, it’s Streep who steals the show. She makes Miranda three dimensional in a way the first film didn't have time for, showing us the loneliness and drive beneath the ice. She’s still awful, but we finally understand why. There is more to the “Devil” than just horns and a pitchfork.

I hate to say it, but I liked “The Devil Wears Prada 2” more than the original. It’s smarter, goofier and has more on its mind than just Fashion Week. The film abandons some of the glitz that made the original so beloved, which might be a dealbreaker for those looking for glamor rather than a movie that spends much of its runtime on modern job insecurity for writers.

While the film still suffers when it focuses on Andy’s personal life (at least there’s no Nate!), “The Devil Wears Prada 2” is one of the few sequels that seems to understand its own legacy. It doesn’t try to recreate the early aughts; instead -- the moment we see Miranda realizing she can’t be her typical draconian self

"THE DEVIL WEARS PRADA 2" DIR. DAVID FRANKEL GRADE: B+

“THE DEVIL WEARS PRADA 2” FEELS LESS LIKE A LEGACY SEQUEL DESIGNED TO PICK YOUR POCKETBOOK AND MORE LIKE A RECKONING WITH THE STATE OF MODERN POP MEDIA. "

JUNE MUSIC REVIEWS

MEGHAN TRAINOR Toy With Me Epic Records

At 16 tracks, the princess of pastel pop’s seventh studio album serves like a wedding cake: rich and sweet. Standouts include “Pink Cadillac,” giving OG fans a taste of her signature girly pop doo-wop; “Rich Man,” an instant pop hit and clever commentary on Cher’s iconic Dateline NBC interview with Jane Pauley; while sugary “Princess” is for all the girlies out there. Album closer “Shimmer” claps back at the body-shaming haters, with lyrics like “My skin is plastic, and my tears are made of metal / I put to use what I learned, make ’em look when I serve,” while simultaneously reminding the gay community they were her biggest supporters since “All About That Bass,” with “‘Cause I was taught by the divas, queens, and ballerinas.” With an EDM flair and monotone vocals, “Shimmer” doesn’t let her voice shine to its full capability, but her lyrics and music video are proof in the pudding she DGAF what you think. Trainor sadly joined several artists this year who had to cancel concert tours due to lack of ticket sales. Her case is not from a talent deficiency, though — her bubblegum pop is the brightest of pinks, but I blame her bubble bursting on rising gas prices. Because this economy is not something to toy with.

-Marisa Patwa

NOAH KAHAN The Great Divide Mercury Records

King Kahan is the reigning rock god of indie folk-pop. All that to say, the genre-blender’s fourth studio album is a robust 17 tracks — 20 if you download the deluxe version. Hitting number one straight after release is just another step on Kahan’s great ladder climb in the music industry. Skyrocketing to fame after the release of Stick Season didn’t jade the singer or propel him into pop puppetry. He’s just a genuine guy with a gritty rasp, smooth as cookie butter, and poetic lyrics that will send you into a meditative mindspin. The piano instrumental at the start of opener “End of August” melts into your soul with its stripped-back production, while the high note at the beginning of “Porch Light” ignites a fire in your soul. The translucent thread throughout Kahan’s tracks is his echoey, soulful lyricism that makes every chorus feel like a power anthem. With record-breaking sales and a sold-out tour, Kahan is making folk-pop cool again. The Great Divide? More like The Great Uniter.

-Marisa Patwa

DRAKE Iceman

Ovo/Republic Records

Drake returns with Iceman, an album so emotionally temperaturecontrolled it could probably preserve leftovers. Naturally, the internet did what it does best: immediately open ChatGPT and start generating Kendrick Lamar as “The Fireman” like we’re auditioning for a Marvel Civil War sequel nobody greenlit. Ice vs. fire? Cute. At this point, it’s less rap beef and more seasonal branding. On “Make Them Pay,” Drake attempts emotional frostbite with lines like, “My sixth sense is kicking in ’cause all I hear is people that are dead to me / And that’s why I’m turnin’ on my read receipts / To let you know that everything that’s said to me will forever be stored in my memory.” DJ Khaled, A$AP Rocky, and Lamar Odom all take shots from the Canadian rapper. Drake isn’t trying to wipe his sad-boy persona clean, but make his quest for revenge known. The slick production mixed with his confident cadence should send chills down his enemies’ spines.

- Marisa Patwa

BLUES WITH BRAGIN

JENNIFER LYN AND THE GROOVE REVIVIAL

Electric Eden

J&R Collective

Jennifer Lyn and The Groove Revival return with their latest album Electric Eden, an album that the band recorded live at The Belle Mehus Auditorium in Bismarck, North Dakota. The album kicks off with “Breaking Chains”, a song that allows Lyn to showcase her powerhouse vocals as she sings about not letting anything hold her back. A guest appearance from Jaxon Fitterer on guitar adds a great touch to the song. “Light the Fire/ When the Leevee Breaks” sees the band try their hand at a medley of songs by Memphis Minnie and Led Zeppelin as Barb Jiskra provides steady keyboard work. Drums from Jim Anderson and bass from Nolyn Falcon set the tone on a cover of the Jefferson Airplane song “White Rabbit”.

“Lay Your Memory Down” features searing guitar and vocals about getting over a former lover. Rocking guitar with a psychedelic influence permeates “Nothing Holding Me Down”. “Baggage” boasts a Cajun feel with great drumming from Anderson and keys from Jiskra as Lyn sings about navigating a difficult relationship. Lyn sings about not caring if a former lover returns or stays away since she kept his classic car in “’59 Cadillac”. The album ends with “Refuge”, a song where Lyn asks someone to serve as a source of consolation for her during difficult times. This album has something for everyone.

For more information, visit www.jlynandthegrooverevival.com.

SCREEN TIME WITH MARISA

PATWA

From space-age warriors to animated nostalgia and caped heroines, this month’s Screen Time lineup proves blockbuster escapism is back in full force.

MASTERS OF THE UNIVERSE

Nicholas Galitzine is adding to his royal repertoire as Prince Adam, a.k.a. He-Man, in the second live-action adaptation of Masters of the Universe. The popular comic book franchise, rooted in medieval sorcery and alien sci-fi technology, first captivated audiences in 1987 with a beefy Dolph Lundgren at the helm. The pulpy plot remains the same: the royal alien superhero is on a quest to save his home planet, Eternia, from the tyrannical reign of dictator Skeletor. He-Man’s childhood, through the Clark Kent-looking glass, is peculiarly similar — both grew up on Earth after fleeing their alien ancestral homes and must now face their celestial pasts as the true heroes they were always destined to become. The cheeky film is caked in ’80s camp, with Galitzine in full space-barbarian battle mode — a tasteful ode to the first film. The update kicks things up a notch with a glitzy role-call: Camila Mendes, Kristen Wiig, Alison Brie, Morena Baccarin, Idris Elba, James Purefoy and Jared Leto as the evil warlock Skeletor. If Galitzine can land roles as a pop king, Prince Charming and the Prince of England, surely he can master the universe.

IN THEATERS 6/5

The on-the-nose plot of Toy Story 5 tugs at the heartstrings of every modern parent. In a technology-riddled world, the fresh plastic of the latest Mattel Barbie or the pop of batteries into your robot toy car doesn’t nearly satiate Gen Alpha like doomscrolling or app hopscotch.Woody, Buzz, and Jessie have to band together to bring back the magic of toys — hands-on play, make-believe, wishing on a star. The wild imagination of Andy carried the first three films as the lead kid at the heart of his toys’ love. Having passed down the mantle to little sister Bonnie in Toy Story 4, she’s picking up the reins again. Now eight years old, Bonnie’s toy bubble bursts when a Lilypad (Pixar’s version of a LeapFrog mixed with an iPad) arrives at her house. Move along, toys of the past, because Bonnie only has eyes for her new techno toy. As everyone’s favorite toy dinosaur Rex bemoans, “Extinction — not again!” Can our favorite space-soldier-and-cowboy duo unite the toys once more and help Bonnie rediscover the magic of playtime? If not, there’s always Toy Story 6.

IN THEATERS 6/19

SUPERGIRL

Supergirl is a hot mess and I’m here for it. Milly Alcock's cameo in last summer’s Superman blockbuster was like lighting your first firecracker on the Fourth of July. Star power + super powers makes for a lethal combination. It’s a tricky role — mastering being the problematic yet likeable little cousin of Earth’s savior, but she does it with a cool suave easily clocked. Celebrations for her 23rd birthday include an intergalactic trip around the universe with her space dog Krypto, and a preference for bar-hopping on red sun planets, which diminish her Kryptonian powers. Yellow sun planets, like earth, leave Supergirl with all her god-like powers, soaking up her alcohol content. Long story short: she can get drunk in the red. The flip-side leaves Supergirl more vulnerable, but also feeling more human. As the lead in her own story, Supergirl’s carfree attitude is tested when she inadvertently gets recruited on a revenge journey to capture an evil space pirate. I love me some Superman, but I’m more excited to see a Type B superhero save the day.

IN THEATERS 6/26

TOY STORY 5

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BOURBON & SPIRIT REVIEW

SINGLE MALT DRINKER’S REVIEW:

CARL T BOTTLED-IN-BOND BOURBON (STRAIGHT POUR)

Carl T Bottled-in-Bond is a local Indiana bourbon produced by 4 Spirits Distillery, named in honor of Sgt. Carl Thompson, a fallen soldier. This expression is a standout in the growing world of craft American whiskey — not just for its flavor, but for its Bottled-in-Bond status, a mark of authenticity and quality dating back to 1897.

The Bottled-in-Bond Act requires that the bourbon be made in one distillation season, by one distiller, at one distillery, and aged for at least four years in a federally bonded warehouse. It must also be bottled at exactly 100 proof (50% ABV). That means no blending across seasons or producers, no additives, and no shortcuts. For single malt drinkers used to the purity of single distillery expressions, this is the American equivalent of a guarantee: what’s in the bottle is a true representation of the distiller’s craft.

Landon Miller is a Kentucky native and former bartender with a passion for bourbon and spirits, bringing experience and love for his home state's rich distilling tradition to offer honest, insightful reviews for fellow enthusiasts.

NOSE:

Neat, Carl T opens with bold notes of vanilla and baked corn, grounded by toasted oak and clove. After a minute in the glass, darker tones emerge — dried cherry, leather, and a hint of pipe smoke. It has the aromatic depth of a sherried Speyside malt but remains rooted in its grain-driven bourbon identity. Despite the 100 proof, there’s little ethanol bite — just richness and warmth.

PALATE:

The mouthfeel is oily and full. First impressions lean sweet and spicy: caramelized brown sugar, cinnamon, and roasted nuts. As it unfolds, you get more savory elements — oak char, dark chocolate, and a twist of orange peel. It’s structured, with a firm backbone, and feels intentional — much like a well-aged Highland single malt that emphasizes balance over flash. The 100 proof strength adds body without overwhelming the palate.

FINISH:

Long, dry, and warming. Oak and baking spice lead the way, with subtle returns of cherry, leather, and a final flicker of mint. It lingers much like a dry, cask-strength Scotch.

FINAL THOUGHTS:

Carl T Bottled-in-Bond isn’t a flashy pour, but it doesn’t need to be. It’s a local Indiana bourbon with pedigree, discipline, and depth — offering a bold yet precise experience that single malt fans can respect. For those who value craft, transparency, and tradition, this is bourbon done the right way.

SCORE (Single Malt Perspective): 87/100

BEST ENJOYED: Neat, in a Glencairn or tulip glass, with patience and quiet.

JUNE BEER REVIEWS

JABEZ MARTINEZ – 4

BELL’S HAZY HEARTED IPA

This beer poured a cloudy amber color with good carbonation. It did have a niche hoppy aroma. I first tasted the sweet hops flavor and it was pretty malty. I think the amped up ABV, which was 9.5, gave a slight warming effect. This is not a session beer by any means and was pretty filling. I haven’t had too many imperial IPAs but I have a feeling this one will sneak up on you. It went down pretty smoothly.

PAUL BRAGIN – 4.5

A thick white head crowns this India pale ale and evaporates slowly. Tropical citrus notes from the hops dominate the scent profile. Bitter hop flavors remain in the initial tasting and continue in the extended finish as sweet malt flavors also come through. Hop lovers definitely need to keep this on hand. Pair it with a wide range of foods like smoked brisket, pulled pork, Buffalo wings, burgers, sausages, Cheddar cheese or carrot cake.

PAUL HOLLYFELD– 4.5

This is a Big IPA that pours with the same haziness as the Hazy Hearted IPA, with a bit more of an orange hue, and a similar thin white head. On the nose it is similar to the Hazy Hearted IPA as well, but where the Hazy Hearted has hints of citrus and other fruit, this one is loaded. It is probably a little less bitter on the palette, with credit for that given to the heavier malt backbone. It also finishes with notes of mango. This is a very smooth drinking imperial IPA, so use caution. It could be easy to over imbibe with this delicious IPA.

JABEZ MARTINEZ - 4.5

This beer was a little lighter in color compared to the Big Hearted and very similar in many ways. I liked this one better though. Maybe it was because it was a little lighter flavor and the ABV was dialed back a bit and also brought out extra flavor. This one is a little easier to drink. It still had an ABV of 7.5% with a hearty hops flavor. I don't think Bell’s has put out anything I didn’t like.

PAUL BRAGIN - 4.5

A thick white head tops this hazy golden India pale ale and never totally disappears. A burst of citrus from the hops fills the nose. The hop flavor continues with the first sip and stays in the long finish. People who like hoppy beers need to try this. Pair it with a variety of foods like jerk chicken, spicy Thai curry, tacos, French fries, citrus dressed ceviche or use it as an ingredient in cheesy beer bread.

PAUL HOLLYFELD

- 4.25

This IPA pours an opaque hazy yellow-orange hue with a thin white head. Fruity on the nose with hints of orange and other citrus. On the palette there is a bit of IPA bitterness and then it finishes with a hint of mango that lingers on. Well, balanced, and a solid choice as you would expect from Bell’s.